Dems tap Roche to run in 31st district

May 20, 2014

In front of more than 50 supporters in the Bristol Public Library Monday night, Bristol resident Dave Roche was officially nominated as the Democratic candidate in the race for the 31st District state senate seat.

He will face off against Henri Martin, a Bristol city councilor who has been endorsed by the district Republicans.

Dave Roche is seeking to succeed retiring state Senator Jason Welch (R- Bristol) and in his acceptance speech he told supporters his goal was find the middle ground to get the 31st District working again, reported a press release from his campaign.

“Building the economy is just like my field of construction, you always start from the ground up,” said Roche, according to a press release. “Proper investments in our education system will serve as the foundation for our future. We have a tech school right here in Bristol but students leave without learning some fundamentals they will need to help them get jobs. When I am elected, we will expand education and programs like Helmets to Hardhats to get people working again. This program can and will be expanded to help all our veterans who serve. Once we solidify our foundation we can focus on the framework of our economy.”

After the speech, the release said Roche thanked his supporters and vowed to work hand and hand with them to win in November.

The night started out with a nomination from Mike Portozza, a Bristol resident, who, according to Roche’s press release, recognized Roche’s “strong work ethic and ability to bring people together.”

He continued by saying, the release reported, “We need a senator who understands our day to day issues. Dave will fight for good paying jobs so working men and women can support their families. Dave will bring a strong voice to our district and the ability to get the job done.”

The 31st Senate District includes Bristol, Harwinton, Plymouth, Plainville and Thomaston.